The 1990 Western Conference Semifinals Game 7 vs Phoenix Suns
A hard-fought seven-game series victory propelled the Blazers toward the Conference Finals and a shot at the title.
The 1990 Western Conference Semifinals between the Portland Trail Blazers and the Phoenix Suns went the distance, with Portland winning a thrilling Game 7 on May 16, 1990, to take the series 4-3. The decisive game featured a controversial call involving Kevin Johnson free throws, adding to the dramatic narrative of a hard-fought series that saw the Blazers advance to the Conference Finals.
- Series Result
- Portland won series 4-3
Lore & Background
The series stretched to seven games, culminating in a controversial Game 7 on May 16, 1990, where a disputed call on Kevin Johnson free throws added to the drama. Portland's 108-105 victory in that game propelled them to the Western Conference Finals, a key step in their memorable playoff run.
In Their Own Story
The air in Memorial Coliseum was thick with humidity and anticipation. Dan Majerle dribbled upcourt, eyes locked on the rim. Terry Porter slid across the hardwood, extending a hand to stop the drive. The whistle blew—a sharp, piercing sound that cut through the roar of the crowd. Referee Dick Bavetta pointed, signaling an offensive foul. The silence was deafening for a split second before the arena erupted in disbelief. In those frozen moments, a championship dream evaporated.
Reader's Guide
The occasion was a winner-take-all Game 7, where both teams were exhausted but playing with frantic energy. The game remained deadlocked until the final seconds of overtime, when Phoenix's Dan Majerle drove into the lane against Terry Porter. Instead of calling a defensive foul on Porter, which would have given Portland possession and a chance to win, the referees called an offensive foul on Majerle. This controversial ruling allowed Phoenix to retain possession with only a few seconds remaining. It is remembered as one of the most pivotal 'what if' moments in NBA history, symbolizing the fine line between glory and heartbreak.
Did You Know?
- Clyde Drexler scored 39 points in Game 7, leading the Blazers to a 108-105 victory over the Suns.
- The series was the last time the Blazers reached the Western Conference Semifinals until 1991; they actually reached the Conference Finals in 1990 and the Semifinals again in 1991.